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Videos circulated on Monday of LA Galaxy and LAFC fans fighting at Dignity Health Sports Park during Sunday’s El Trafico match between the teams. We won’t share those here because there’s nothing to gain from sharing senseless violence.
Beyond that, supporters on both sides have spent the past 24 hours blaming the other side of various acts that incited violence or made others feel unsafe at the game. Rivalry is great and all but violence obviously has no place in all of this. You’re not cool if you beat up other fans, you’re just a gigantic loser who is not welcome to be part of the community.
In response, both the Galaxy and LAFC released a statement together on Monday condemning the violence at the last two games and imploring all fans to treat everyone respectfully, while vowing to turn in offenders to local law enforcement:
The LA Galaxy and LAFC are committed to growing the sport and the culture of soccer in Los Angeles and beyond. We are proud to share one of the most exciting new rivalries in the world.
We are also committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for our guests and their families at all events and games. Fan violence has no place at our matches. The type of conduct displayed at the Aug. 28 and Oct. 3 games does not belong in the stands or anywhere in our game.
LA Galaxy and LAFC are reviewing fan incidents that took place during last night’s match with local authorities, and a review of incidents that took place during the Aug. 28 match is ongoing. These incidents violate the LA Galaxy, LAFC and Major League Soccer’s Fan Code of Conduct and will not be tolerated. Fans in violation of this code will face disciplinary action including ejections and bans.
We ask all fans of both Clubs to respect each other and find common ground as Angelinos and passionate fans of the sport. Let’s build together.
There’s no excuse for going after other people, period. So don’t do it in the future, and keep the rivalry clean and on the field.
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